Question

List two functions of the lymphatic system?

Answer 1

Hint: Two main functions of the lymphatic system are:
1) The lymphatic system is accountable for the removal of interstitial fluid from tissues.
2) It also transports white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones.

Complete answer:
> Removal of interstitial fluid from tissues-
The removal of excess fluids from body tissues is a crucial process because water, proteins, and other substances are continuously seeping out of tiny blood capillaries into the surrounding body tissues. If the lymphatic system didn’t perform this function to drain the excess fluid from the tissues, the lymph fluid would accumulate in the body’s tissues, and they would swell.

> Transportation of white blood cells to and from the lymph nodes into the bones-
The lymphatic system plays an integral role in the immune functions of the body by transporting WBC's and filtering lymph fluid containing antibodies and lymphocytes (good) and bacteria (bad). This forms the first line of defense against disease. The spleen also helps this mechanism where the body fights infection as it contains lymphocytes and another kind of white blood cell called macrophages. They engulf and destroy bacteria, dead tissue, and foreign matter and remove them from the blood passing through the spleen.

Note: The lymphatic system, also known as the lymphoid system. It is an organ system in vertebrates which is a part of the circulatory system and the immune system. It makes up a large network of lymphatic vessels, lymphatic or lymphoid organs, and lymphoid tissues. These vessels carry a clear fluid known as lymph fluid towards the heart.